Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I schedule my first appointment?

Getting started is simple. You can reach out via our Contact Page to fill out the inquiry form, book directly on Zocdoc, or call us directly at (708) 945-1928.

Do you offer online therapy (telehealth)?

Yes, Deborah Mestas offers secure and confidential telehealth sessions via video conferencing. This allows you to attend therapy from the comfort and privacy of your own home or another convenient location within Illinois or Montana.

Where are you located?

I offer telehealth services to clients located anywhere in Illinois or Montana. There is no in-person office. For mail, the practice address is Integrative Emotional Enrichment Services, P.C., 278 W Rand Rd, Ste 1 PMB 1016, Arlington Heights, IL 60004.

How long is a typical therapy session?

Standard therapy sessions are typically 55 minutes long. Intake sessions (the first appointment) may sometimes be slightly longer, around 60 minutes, to allow ample time for gathering history and discussing goals.

How often will I need to attend therapy?

Most clients begin with weekly sessions. This frequency helps build momentum and establish a strong therapeutic relationship. As progress is made, we may mutually decide to decrease the frequency, depending on your needs and goals.

What is your cancellation policy?

We require at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. Appointments cancelled with less notice may be subject to the full session fee, except in cases of emergency. This policy allows us to offer the time slot to others who may be waiting.

What actually happens in a therapy session?

Therapy is a collaborative process. Sessions involve talking about your concerns, thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space. Deborah Mestas, LCPC, will listen actively, provide feedback, ask questions to help you gain insight, and teach you coping skills and strategies. Depending on your needs, specific techniques like CBT, or mindfulness practices might be incorporated.

How long does therapy take?

The duration of therapy varies greatly depending on the individual, the nature of the concerns being addressed, and your personal goals. Some clients find relief and achieve their goals in a relatively short period (a few months), while others dealing with more complex or long-standing issues may benefit from longer-term therapy.

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

Therapy can be beneficial for anyone facing challenges, seeking personal growth, or wanting to improve their well-being. If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, persistently sad or anxious, having relationship difficulties, struggling with past trauma, or simply want a space to understand yourself better, therapy could be helpful. The initial appointment is a great way to explore if it feels like the right fit.

Is what I share in therapy confidential?

Yes, confidentiality is a cornerstone of therapy and is protected by law and ethical standards. What you discuss in session will be kept private, with a few rare exceptions mandated by law. These exceptions typically involve situations where there is an imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, suspected child or elder abuse, or if required by a court order. These limits to confidentiality will be discussed in detail during your first session.

What's the difference between talking to a therapist and talking to a friend?

While supportive friends are invaluable, therapy offers something different. A therapist is a trained professional with expertise in mental health, human behavior, and effective treatment techniques. They provide an objective perspective, maintain confidentiality, and focus entirely on your needs and growth without the dual relationship dynamics present in friendships.

What are your fees?

Our standard fee for a 55-minute therapy session is $175 for both individual and couples therapy. Initial assessment/intake sessions (60 minutes) are $175. For the most current fee structure, please visit our Insurance & Fees page.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes, Deborah Mestas is an in-network provider for BCBS Illinois, Aetna, United Healthcare, Cigna and Optum.

How do I find out about my insurance benefits?

Call the member services number on the back of your insurance card. Ask about your "outpatient mental health benefits" for out-of-network providers. Key questions to ask include:

• Do I have coverage for outpatient mental health therapy (in-person and/or telehealth)?
• What is my deductible, and have I met it?
• What is my co-pay or co-insurance amount per session?
• Is there a limit on the number of sessions covered per year?
• Do I need pre-authorization for therapy sessions?

Do you offer a sliding scale?

We have a limited number of sliding scale slots available based on financial need. Please inquire about availability during your initial contact.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept major credit cards, HSA/FSA cards, and checks. Payment is typically due at the time of service.

What kind of therapy do you practice?

Deborah K. Mestas, LCPC, utilizes an integrative approach, tailoring therapy to each client's unique needs. This often includes drawing from various therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for managing thoughts and behaviors, psychodynamic insights for understanding past influences, and mindfulness techniques for present-moment awareness and stress reduction.

What are your qualifications?

Deborah K. Mestas is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the states of Illinois and Montana. She holds a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology and has extensive training and experience in various therapeutic modalities.

What types of clients and issues do you specialize in?

We specialize in working with young adults, adults, and couples facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and bereavement, relationship issues, stress management, life transitions, self-esteem issues, and coping with health concerns.